The Modernity of War

The atomisation of modern society has reduced the sanction of established authorities such as government, religious leaders and older adults. The collective has been reduced by an emphasis on the individual. War is a construction, not so much of the collective will and identity as formally, but now as a ritual among peers. A desire to test oneself in the ultimate crucible of combat is fostered in the informational world, especially the video game. But attributing a notion of modernity to war is necessarily problematic and probably short-lived.